Optimising how you use your outside space can have an impact on the environment – and save you money too. You can use less water, reduce your spend on fruit and veg, create free fertilizer for your garden... and develop a wildlife-friendly space.
Save water and protect your green spaces
We're all seeing the impact of hotter, drier summers on our gardens, green spaces and local wildlife. At SNG, caring for the environment is an important part of how we support our communities, and small actions at home can help conserve water, support biodiversity and build resilience to drought conditions.
Support local wildlife
Periods of hot weather can be especially challenging for wildlife. Things to do at home:
- Leave out shallow dishes of water for mammals, bees and insects. Adding pebbles gives insects a safe place to land and drink.
- Provide raised water baths for birds to help them stay hydrated.
- Create shaded areas using plants, logs or garden features where wildlife can shelter from the heat.
- Remember that hot pavements can burn dogs' paws. Walk pets early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
Preserving water
Using water wisely helps reduce pressure on local supplies during dry periods. Here’s how:
- Install a water butt to collect and store rainwater for use in your garden.
- Leave your lawn, it will soon recover after rainfall. Leave your grass slightly longer during dry spells and leave the cuttings on the ground - this will also benefit wildlife.
- Spread some mulch – apply a thick layer between plants to help keep the moisture in and the weeds away.
- Reuse water – Keep excess water from washing up bowls and use it on the garden (such as when you're waiting for the tap to heat up or washing hands). Just make sure it's not too greasy and doesn't contain strong cleaning products.
- Use a watering can – rather than a sprinkler or a hose. If you need to use a hose, fit a trigger gun to save water and money on your bills.
- Water your plants in the early morning or evening – it's cooler and less water is lost to evaporation. Give plants a good soaking once or twice a week in dry weather rather than light, daily watering.
- Water the roots – aim directly at the roots rather than scattering water on the leaves. Established trees, shrubs and lawns don't need watering.
- Weed regularly – this lets your plants to soak up the water, instead of the weeds.
- Look for shade - Move delicate plants into shaded areas during prolonged periods of hot weather.
Planting for summer
Growing fruit and vegetables in your garden or an allotment is a good way to save money and cut down your carbon footprint. Even if you don't have any outside space, there's lots you can grow on a balcony or sunny windowsill.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) 
has some great advice on growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs.
Choosing the right plants and gardening techniques can make outdoor spaces more resilient. Ideas include:
- Plant drought-tolerant species in warmer, drier areas and reserve wetter spots for plants that need more moisture. Consider planting beans, squash and Mediterranean herbs, which are better suited to dry conditions.
- Add mulch or bark chippings to beds and pots to help retain moisture in the soil.
- Avoid cutting lawns too short during hot weather.
- Leave grass cuttings where they fall if possible. As this creates shade, grass cuttings return nutrients and water to the soil
Get composting
Composting not only helps to reduce the rubbish in your bin but also creates a free supply of compost to keep your garden blooming. Composting at home also cuts CO2 emissions.
You can buy compost bins at most DIY shops, but you might be able to get a cheaper one through the Get Composting website . You could try making your own compost heap using chicken wire, scrap wood/pallets or by simply finding a corner of your garden.
Recycle Now provides great tips and useful advice to get your compost bin started.
Create a wildlife-friendly garden
Get inspiration from some of the winners of the 'Sustainable garden' category in our 2024 SNG In Bloom awards:
- Michelle Plummer describes how she's transformed her garden into a haven for wildlife. She explains that gardens cover more area than nature reserves in the UK, so we can all make a difference.
- Lynne Thorne and her neighbour Tom were winners for creating a more sustainable community green space outside their homes in Surrey (and are doing more each year!) Read Lynne's top tips on getting started with gardening.
Stay informed
Local councils, wildlife trusts and water companies regularly share advice about drought conditions and any water restrictions. News, such as hosepipe bans, is also broadcasted through local authorities, wildlife trusts and water companies’ social media and websites. Keeping up to date with local guidance can help you make informed decisions and protect both your garden and the environment.
By making small changes now, we can all play a part in protecting water resources, supporting wildlife and helping our communities adapt to warmer summers.
Help improve your local area
Did you know you can join the SNG Sustainability Group or take part in monthly eco challenges? There are prizes to be won! Check out the Sustainability Group part of our engagement website for more details. Don't forget about our annual SNG In Bloom competition too.
If you want to get more involved in your wider local area, why not find out if there are any community gardening or environmental groups you can join? Or keep an eye on Facebook groups for local events. Many local councils and some community groups also have litter picking equipment you can borrow.